Federal Judge Greenlights Reopened California Oil Pipeline Amid Opposition
A California oil pipeline that was shut down in 2015 after one of the state's worst oil spills has been given the green light to continue operating by a federal judge, despite opposition from state regulators and environmental groups.
The pipeline, owned by Sable Offshore Corporation, was closed for over a decade due to a burst pipe that caused significant damage. It resumed operations earlier this year after Donald Trump invoked the Defense Production Act (DPA) to order its reopening, citing US energy needs during the war in Iran.
California has sought to stop Sable from moving oil through pipelines, describing the company's actions as an 'egregious trespass on public land' that would cause irreparable harm. However, Judge Stephen Wilson ruled that the pipeline can remain in operation and shifted oversight to federal authorities.
The judge fined Sable $1.5m for violating the consent decree without authorization and approval from a state agency or petitioning the court on the matter. The Trump administration invoked the DPA to order the company 'restore operation' to address 'supply disruption risks' caused by California policies, according to Chris Wright, US energy secretary.